SEMERGEN presents a guide to lower respiratory tract infections

The Spanish Society of Primary Care Physicians (SEMERGEN) presents new guidance to improve approach and prevention of lower respiratory tract infections such as acute bronchitis, pneumonia and exacerbations of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), as well as concomitant diseases. The guidelines were developed by the SEMERGEN Respiratory Diseases Working Group with support from Pfizer and Meiji. It aims to provide a clear and updated review of the treatment of lower respiratory tract infections in primary care. All this with the goal of improving the health of patients suffering from these diseases. “Lower respiratory tract infections are is an important cause of morbidity and mortality in Spain. It is therefore necessary that there be guidance on the therapeutic and preventive approach to these diseases,” emphasizes Leovigildo Guinel, Secretary of the SEMERGEN Respiratory Working Group.

Lower respiratory tract infections

Regarding the usefulness of the guide, stated Raoul de Simone, member of the SEMERG respiratory working group. “The therapeutic approach to LRTI in primary health care requires adaptation of treatment to each specific pathology and individual characteristics of patients. selection of an antimicrobial drug if necessary,

It should be based on local resistance patterns as well as patient-specific conditions to maximize the effectiveness and minimize the risks associated with the use of these drugs. A therapeutic and preventive approach is needed based on updated knowledge of the epidemiology of the disease, the pathogens involved, available diagnostic tests, and the most effective treatment and prevention strategies.” It should be remembered that Lower respiratory tract infections (LRTIs) represent a significant burden of disease, especially in primary care. It is at this level of care that most of these cases are dealt with. In addition, they also represent a significant cause of morbidity and mortality. An estimated 15 percent of PC consultations are related to respiratory tract infections, with antibiotics prescribed in half of LRTI cases.